Pediatric Mixed Connective Tissue Disease Follow-up

Updated: Jul 23, 2021
  • Author: Marisa S Klein-Gitelman, MD, MPH; Chief Editor: Lawrence K Jung, MD  more...
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Follow-up

Further Care

Further outpatient care

Observe the patient at regular intervals of 1-3 months depending on disease severity and manifestations. Obtain appropriate laboratory tests during these visits depending on disease manifestations and medication adverse effects.

Laboratory data may include lupus serology, renal evaluation, muscle enzymes, and hematologic evaluation.

Use physical or occupational therapy as needed for musculoskeletal symptoms.

Continue to monitor for early evidence of pulmonary hypertension, interstitial lung disease, esophageal dysmotility, and osteoporosis.

Further inpatient care

Admit patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) to the hospital for diagnostic evaluation or for chemotherapy as warranted. Most often, this is an outpatient evaluation.

Transfer

Because patients with mixed connective tissue disease often have complicated medical issues, refer to a tertiary medical center for evaluation and treatment.

Deterrence/prevention

No intervention to deter disease onset or to alter progression is known other than the medical management of disease manifestations as described and screening for new disease manifestations.